Botox

What is Botox?Botulinum Toxin, known commonly as Botox, is a protein and neurotoxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium Botulinum which is responsible for temporarily improving the appearance of wrinkles and frown lines.

Botox is widely used for enhancing appearance by paralyzing facial muscles, causing the face to be smooth and supple. It also widely used medically to treat conditions such as cervical dystonia (neck spams) and hyperhidrosis, (over sweating) as well as overactive bladder and Bell’s palsy.

It is an ideal treatment for those who desire to look younger and more youthful without needing to have plastic surgery. However, it is not for everyone. Check to see whether you are suitable for Botox treatment from your doctor.

How Long Does Botox Treatment Last?Botox typically last about 4 to 6 months depending on the elasticity of the skin and requires an injection every once or twice a month.

Results have shown that Botox, which is done back-to-back up to 4 times a year, can last up to 2-3 years for the specific muscles to be weakened permanently.

Over time, much less Botox is needed each time for the follow-up treatments significantly, causing treatment results to last more permanently.

How Does Botox Work?Botox cosmetic treatment is not the same as other botulinum toxin products. It takes only a few minutes and requires no anesthesia. Botox is injected with a fine needle into overactive muscles with miniscule quantities in order to decrease muscle activity. This is done by blocking the release of acetylcholine from the neuron, which effectively weakens the muscle for at least three to four months. In some cases, it can last up to six months or more.

The procedure is not painful and can be done with only minor discomfort. It is a non-surgical procedure and is not invasive. Most patients see full results in as little as three to seven days. Aspirin and anti-inflammatory medications should be avoided at least two weeks before treatment to reduce bruising.

Who are the Most Suitable Candidates for this Treatment?The most suitable candidates for this procedure are not pregnant, not breast-feeding, do not have a history of neuromuscular disease, and are not taking aminoglycoside antibiotics or penicillamine. They are also healthy adults between the ages of 18 and 65 years old. Bigger men and women may require a higher dosage – up to twice the normal amount.

How Much Does Botox Costs?Prices differ for different brands as well as for different doctors performing the treatment. In Singapore, the price for Botox ranges from S$240 to S$880, depending on the area of which the Botox is injected to. Follow-up treatments cost around S$150.

Botox Side EffectsSome of the more common side effects include dry mouth, headaches, neck pain, double vision, and decreased eyesight; swelling at the injected areas, dry eyes and blurred vision.

Most of the time, the side effects do not last very long, are not harmful and are treatable. They are also generally minor and temporary and can be predicted by an experienced surgeon.

However, you should seek medical help immediately if you experience trouble in breathing, talking or swallowing, dropping eyelids, loss of bladder control or unusual or severe muscle weakness especially in areas where Botox was not injected. You could be experiencing a severe allergic reaction.